Gaslight Anthem

A few years back i discovered a New Jersey band called the Gaslight Anthem, i can't remember why i looked into them, but i felt an instant connection to the band lyrically and musically. And lately it seems like i'm not the only one feeling this connection. Musically the band reminded me of some older melodic punk bands (the vocals have a little gruffness to them) mixed with some rock elements that bring to mind Bruce Springsteen and some old college rock (for those who remember the term). Lyrically, they flow more like essays, or a book but aren't too wordy or filled with whiny poetry.
This week I got 2 new 7"s from the Gaslight Anthem; one is a sneak peek into their new (2nd) full length "The '59 Sound", while the other is demo versions of songs from their 1st full length "Sink or Swim".
The 2 new songs are incredible that show a progression without changing their sound. They've added a bit more of a "roots" influence, a little of the Springsteen influence, especially on the song "Even Cowgirls Get the Blues". And you gotta love a song with lyrics that name-drop Tom Petty.
The "Sink of Swim Demos" 7" showcases songs that i'm already familiar with but with a rougher, and looser quality to them. I imagine that this is closer to what the songs sound like in a live setting. I think in some ways i like these versions better, especially the haunting "Navesink Banks". This record is on Devil Dance Records, and i lucked out in getting the "tour press", with a nice grey/blue split vinyl, see the picture below.
Over the next few weeks the mailman should be bringing me not only the new full length on vinyl but also a very sweet looking Gaslight Anthem coffee mug! Both ordered from the fine folks at Vinyl Collective.